Where to See the Solar Eclipse in Illinois

On April 8, a wide swath of North America will plunge into darkness for a few minutes in the mid-afternoon as the moon passes between the sun and the Earth. The phenomenon is rare: The next full solar eclipse won’t occur until 2044.

Illinois is on the “path of totality,” but Chicago isn’t. Residents can catch a partial eclipse here or travel for the astronomical event.

Do Not Stare at the Sun With Your Bare Eyes!

Regular sunglasses are not strong enough, so you’ll want to snag a pair of eclipse glasses. Warby Parker is giving away free pairs while supplies last, and the American Astronomical Society put together a list of other suppliers.

How to See Partial Eclipse in Chicago

On April 8, the partial eclipse is set to be between 12:51 p.m. and 3:22 p.m.

• The Adler Planetarium is hosting a free outdoor event, weather-permitting.
• The Museum of Science and Industry has telescopes outside at the Jackson Park museum as well as Millennium Park, the Michigan Avenue bridge, Oak Street Beach, and DuSable Museum.
• Chicago Public Library branches have viewing parties and crafts.

Where to Travel for Full Eclipse

Head south to see the full eclipse, which is expected to peak around 2 p.m. and last just four minutes.

• Carbondale is hosting a four-day total solar eclipse festival. Classes are canceled at the Southern Illinois University campus for the event. There’s first-come, first-serve camping at the nearby Shawnee National Forest.
• Indianapolis is offering a free event at Butler University.
• Bloomington, Indiana, is bringing star power to their watch party. Performer Janelle Monáe, “Star Trek” actor William Shatner, and pioneering astronaut Mae Jemison are set to be in attendance.